The train from Cusco to Puno

Transportation

The train ride from Cusco to Puno is one of the highest in the world, 3,500m (11,500 ft), and one of the most picturesque, apart from the train ride to Machu Picchu The first half of this ten-hour journey provides some breathtaking views of Peru’s Andean mountains that loom over deep valleys and the Huatanay River. The second half offers opportunities to take pleasure in the view of the Andean plains. The first-class coaches are oxygenated to mitigate the possibility of altitude sickness.

Travel options vary from first to economy class, with prices ranging from $119 to $16. First class includes an open-air observation deck. As in all your travels through Latin America, a certain degree of common-sense caution is advised in safeguarding your valuables.

The train for Puno departs from Estación Huanchaq (tel. 084-238-722) at the end of Avenida Sol, leaving every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 8:00 am.  The trip from Cusco from Puno has the same schedule, with the Puno train station at Avenida La Torre 224 (tel. 051-351-041). Reservations for the latter must be made at least one day in advance.

For more information, go to www.perurail.com